Measures increase flexibility for the ONS to ensure system reliability and meet peak demand
Por Brasil Energy Newsroom
Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) has issued two new regulatory ordinances aimed at expanding the availability of thermoelectric generation and enhancing operational flexibility in the country’s power system. According to the ministry, the measures increase the pool of resources available to the National System Operator (ONS) to maintain operational stability and ensure reliable electricity supply throughout the year, particularly during periods of higher demand.
Ordinance No. 130/2026 extends for an additional 12 months the current rule allowing fixed costs to be incorporated into the variable costs of centrally dispatched thermoelectric plants that are operationally available but do not have active power sales contracts. These facilities are commonly referred to as merchant plants. Meanwhile, Ordinance No. 131/2026 extends the validity of Ordinance No. 88/GM/MME/2024, which establishes guidelines for the differentiated operation of thermoelectric plants designed to meet power demand within the National Interconnected Grid System.
The regulation provides greater flexibility in pricing and volume offerings to the system operator, increasing the responsiveness of Brazil’s power matrix—particularly during peak load periods and in scenarios requiring additional operational support. The MMEy said the measures reinforce its preventive planning efforts to ensure national electricity supply and are aligned with the country’s 2026 Strategic Electricity Agenda.